A day after events began, the Winter Games marked their official opening Friday. Russian strongman Vladimir Putin stood above it all in Sochi, the Black Sea resort city being transformed even still, and presented a spectacle he believes will he return Russia to its Soviet-era glory.

American television viewers can be excused for shrugging, but millions will hit NBC channels tonight at 7:30 p.m. ET to gawk.

These games are a godsend for social media, which is getting images and information to the world at an unprecedented rate of both speed and volume. It's no surprise given the explosion in personal technology, and it shows not even Mother Russia can stop the flow of information.

While the Games took Friday off for the gaudy display of Russian ego, the action resumes Saturday. Here's a look at the schedule; events will be live on NBC affiliates and repackaged for prime-time viewing on the Peacock.

Of particular interest: American and Canadian women begin hockey play in the early-morning hours. Team USA plays live at 3 ET, Team Canada at 8 ET.